Preparing for your MOT: what to check

The MOT (roadworthiness test) is mandatory for vehicles over 4 years old, then every 2 years. To avoid bad surprises and re-tests, it pays to prepare your car. Here are the points to check before the test.

What the tester checks

The test covers safety (brakes, steering, suspension, lights, tyres), emissions (exhaust, smoke for diesels), visibility (windscreen, wipers), equipment (seatbelts, doors, boot) and chassis. Defects are classed as critical (re-test required), major (re-test) or minor (noted but not blocking). Better to fix in advance what you can.

Checklist before the appointment

Brakes: pad and disc wear, brake fluid level. Lights: all bulbs (dipped, main beam, indicators, brake lights, number plate, reverse). Tyres: wear (legal minimum tread depth 1.6 mm), pressure, no cuts or bulges. Fluid levels: coolant, engine oil, screenwash. Exhaust: no holes, no abnormal smoke at idle. Windscreen: no crack in the driver’s swept area. Number plate: legible, properly fixed.

Small steps that help

Drive a bit before the test so the engine and catalyst are up to temperature: emissions will be easier to pass. Check that the check engine light is not on (a stored fault may be noted). Clean the lights and number plate. If you know of a defect (blown bulb, worn pads), have it repaired before rather than after a re-test.

If you need a re-test

You have a period (often 2 months) to fix the defects and retest. Corrected defects are then checked without paying the full test again. My Auto Check-up can help you list symptoms or recent repairs to prepare your visit and anticipate costs.